Building theories from case study research

This paper describes the process of inducting theory using case stud­ ies-from specifying the
research questions to reaching closure. Some features of the process, such as problem
definition and con­ struct validation, are similar to hypothesis-testing research. Others, such as
within-case analysis and replication logic, are unique to the inductive, case-oriented process.
Overall, the process described here is highly iterative and tightly linked to data. This research
approach is especially appropriate in new topic areas. The resultant theory is often novel,
testable, and empirically valid. Finally, framebreaking insights, the tests of good theory (e.g.,
parsimony, logical coherence), and convincing grounding in the evidence are the key criteria for
evaluating this type of research.